Segment:
Executive/Luxury Sedan
Target Audience:
Affluent individuals, business professionals
Key Competitors 1981:
Mercedes-Benz W123, Audi 5000, Jaguar XJ, Volvo 240
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned BMW handling, rear-wheel drive, balanced chassis
Engine Philosophy:
Smooth, refined inline-four (M60 engine family) with a focus on efficiency and BMW's characteristic performance
Interior Design:
Driver-focused cockpit, high-quality materials, ergonomic layout
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, assembly, disassembly, timing, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel injection system (Bosch L-Jetronic/K-Jetronic variants)
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics and wiring diagrams
Transmission:
Manual transmission overhaul, automatic transmission service (if applicable), clutch system, driveshaft, differential
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, shock absorbers, springs, control arms
Brakes:
Brake system diagnostics, caliper overhaul, disc and pad replacement, brake fluid specifications, ABS system (if equipped)
Steering:
Steering gear, power steering system, steering linkage, wheel alignment
Electrical System:
Complete vehicle wiring diagrams, lighting system, accessory circuits, fuse and relay locations, diagnostic procedures
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, window regulators, seals, chassis lubrication, corrosion prevention
Heating And Air Conditioning:
HVAC system components, refrigerant handling, diagnostics, blower motor, evaporator, condenser
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common faults, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) where applicable
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, ignition timing adjustments
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement, rebuilding, and adjustment for all major systems
Overhaul Procedures:
Detailed instructions for complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of engine, transmission, and other major components
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications, clearance measurements, pressure readings, electrical resistance values
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts; covers full rebuilds and in-depth diagnostics
Digital Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable if professionally scanned and OCR'd
Scan Quality:
Variable; often depends on the original source quality and scanning process
Binding Type For Physical:
Spiral bound or perfect bound (for physical versions)
Paper Type For Physical:
Durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated
Displacement:
1766 cc (1.8 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
80.0 mm x 87.0 mm
Horsepower:
90 PS (90 bhp / 66 kW) at 5500 rpm
Torque:
140 Nm (103 lb-ft) at 3000 rpm
Fuel Injection System:
Bosch L-Jetronic or K-Jetronic (depending on market and specific build)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating specified in manual)
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition
Length:
Approx. 4620 mm (181.9 in)
Width:
Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1420 mm (55.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2765 mm (108.9 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1350 kg (2976 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 1870 kg (4123 lbs)
Crash Test Era Standards:
Designed to meet 1970s/early 1980s safety standards; lacks modern crumple zones and advanced airbags.
Braking System:
Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs (most models); power assisted.
Anti Lock Braking System:
Optional on later E28 models, less common on early 518i.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel seatbelts in the front.
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger cell, impact-absorbing steering column.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with upgraded aftermarket units.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog gauges for speed, RPM, fuel level, coolant temperature, oil pressure; comprehensive warning lights.
Cruise Control:
Optional, mechanical or vacuum-actuated cruise control system.
Climate Control:
Manual or semi-automatic climate control system.
Original Connectivity:
N/A (pre-digital era)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (check manual for specific recommendation based on driving conditions)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 20,000-30,000 miles
Timing Belt Chain:
M60B18 uses a timing chain, requiring less frequent replacement than belts, but inspection is recommended
Engine Oil Type:
API SF or SG rated, SAE 20W-50 or 15W-40 typically recommended for this era (consult manual for precise viscosity and specs)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., BMW blue or green coolant), 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check manual for exact specification)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF
Rust And Corrosion:
Prone to rust in wheel arches, rocker panels, and door sills due to age and materials.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses, corroded connectors, and failing relays can lead to intermittent electrical issues.
Fuel System Degradation:
Deterioration of fuel lines, pumps, and injectors over time, especially with older fuel formulations or ethanol blends.
Suspension Wear:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends are common, affecting alignment and handling.
Cooling System Leaks:
Aging hoses, radiator, and water pump can lead to leaks and overheating.
Bmw Philosophy:
Ultimate Driving Machine, engineering excellence, sport sedan focus.
E28 Generation:
Second generation of the 5 Series, succeeding the E12. Introduced in 1981.
518I Positioning:
Entry-level model within the E28 range, offering BMW quality and driving dynamics at a more accessible price point.
Production Years E28:
1981-1988
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing plant primarily)
Contemporary Reviews:
The E28 5 Series generally received praise for its driving dynamics, build quality, and refinement, solidifying BMW's reputation.
Performance Ratings:
Consistently rated highly for handling and road holding among its peers.
Historical Safety Certifications:
Met all prevailing safety regulations of its time, though standards have evolved significantly.
